VIETNAM INTRODUCTION

VIETNAM INTRODUCTION

The Socialist Republic of Vietnam is situated in the eastern part of the Indochina peninsula, bordering China to the north, Lao and Cambodia to the west and the sea to the east. This location positions Vietnam as “the balcony to see the whole world”, “the regional transport station” and “the gate of the region”.

In shape of a dragon, Vietnam appears on the world travel map as one of the most compelling destinations in Southeast Asia. The word “Vietnam travel” in itself is an invitation to charm, exoticism and adventure.

North of Vietnam, you will discover the timeless charm of Hanoi, splendid wonder of Halong Bay and colorful ethnic mosaics of Sapa and Ha Giang. In the Centre, Hoi An with its quaint and nostalgic setting makes the greatest surprise while Hue offers a fantastic fusion of imperial architecture and refined cuisine. Incredibly created by nature, Phong Nha – Ke Bang still reserves a number of secrets for you to discover.

Stretching all the way southward of Vietnam are stunning sandy beaches with year round crystal sunshine in Nha Trang, Mui Ne and Phu Quoc. The Mekong Delta with its immense water, endless rice fields and buzzing floating markets will also capture your heart.

Overview of Vietnam

Prime Minister: Mr. Nguyen Xuan Phuc.

National Day: September 2, 1945.

National Anthem: “The troops advanced.”

Major cities: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh (Saigon), Hue, Danang.

Highest point: Mount Fan Xi Pan at 3143m altitude.

Geography: The country has 95 million inhabitants, with a total area of 341,690 km2. It shares borders with China, Laos and Cambodia. Its capital is Hanoi. The country is in shape of a dragon.

Politics & religion: Vietnam is a socialist republic country, which advocates a single party. Around 54 ethnic groups are recognized by the government, representing only 15% of the Vietnamese population. The mainstream religion is Buddhism.

Economy: Economic growth is driven by Vietnamese international trade and foreign investment, exports accounting for nearly 20% of GDP. The agricultural sector is dominated by crops and plantations (rice, coffee, cashew nuts, corn, pepper, sweet potato, peanut, cotton, rubber, tea), and aquaculture. This is also the sector that employs most of the population.

The main engine of growth is Vietnamese industry; a sector dominated by large state groups, including textiles, food processing, furniture, plastics and paper industries.

The energy sector is also growing steadily. Vietnam is now the third largest oil producer in Southeast Asia. The country is also catching on high value-added industries such as automotive, electronics and computers. The service sector is driven by tourism and telecommunications.